Linking stomatal sensitivity and whole-tree hydraulic architecture

Abstract

Despite the complexity of the relationship between stomatal sensitivity, water loss and vulnerability to embolism, the goal of teasing apart the subtleties is a necessary one. As Litvak et al. (2012) mention, determining transpiration patterns based on vulnerability to embolism would be much easier than the lengthy and potentially expensive processes involved in sap flux or eddy flux measurements. Water loss from trees is a large component of the water cycle in natural systems, and an important cost (in terms of irrigation) and benefit (in terms of temperature mitigation) in urban environments. However, until we have a better understanding of hydraulic architecture on the whole-plant scale and know how that architecture changes with wood type, including how and where these potential hydraulic fuses function, we will continue to lack critical knowledge of how plants manage their hydraulic status and prevent excessive water loss.

Citation

McCulloh, Katherine A.; Woodruff, David R. 2012. Linking stomatal sensitivity and whole-tree hydraulic architecture. Tree Physiology. 32: 369-372.